Quantum Finite-Time Thermodynamics: Insight from a Single Qubit Engine
Roie Dann, Ronnie Kosloff, Peter Salamon
Abstract
Incorporating time into thermodynamics allows for addressing the tradeoff between efficiency and power. A qubit engine serves as a toy model in order to study this tradeoff from first principles, based on the quantum theory of open systems. We study the quantum origin of irreversibility, originating from heat transport, quantum friction, and thermalization in the presence of external driving. We construct various finite-time engine cycles that are based on the Otto and Carnot templates. Our analysis highlights the role of coherence and the quantum origin of entropy production.
Topics & Concepts
Carnot cycleQuantum thermodynamicsHeat engineQubitQuantumEntropy productionCoherence (philosophical gambling strategy)PhysicsQuantum discordStatistical physicsEntropy (arrow of time)ThermalisationQuantum entanglementComputer scienceQuantum mechanicsThermodynamicsAdvanced Thermodynamics and Statistical MechanicsQuantum Information and CryptographyQuantum Electrodynamics and Casimir Effect